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The ride in the sky would cost about $4.6 million a year to operate, could draw up to a million riders a year, and generate an estimated $685 million in economic benefits for the city over 10 years, according to an analysis by the Bay Area Council Economic Institute released Friday.

“This isn’t just about baseball, it’s about opening up a whole new neighborhood,” said A’s President Dave Kaval.

The report estimated the line could move 1,900 commuters a day in and out of the new neighborhood being planed to go up around the ballpark.

Kaval said it was too early to talk fares but that the ride would “be competitive with other local transportation options.” Fares would vary depending on whether the passenger was going to a game, and whether they were a local resident or a tourist.

And make no mistake, Kaval said the team expects the ride to be hit tourist attraction, once people get a look a the “breathtaking views of Oakland and the waterfront.”

We’ll see.

San Francisco Chronicle columnist Phillip Matier appears Sundays and Wednesdays. Matier can be seen on the KPIX-TV morning and evening news. He can also be heard on KCBS radio Monday through Friday at 7:50 a.m. and 5:50 p.m. Got a tip? Call 415-777-8815, or email pmatier@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @philmatier